B-Jazz is looking for promising Belgian jazz talent

Also in 2026, B-Jazz International Contest is looking for fresh jazz talent ready to take on international stages. For this edition, we are collaborating with De Jazzontspooring and 5 voor 12.

Through an open call, six Belgian bands will be chosen to perform their set during one of two preliminary rounds: on 21 March at CC Het SPOOR (Harelbeke) or on 23 April at GC Felix Sohie (Hoeilaart). On each evening, three bands will take the stage in a warm, atmospheric venue with professional sound reinforcement — the perfect setting to let their music shine.

A jury will then select two groups to advance to the grand finale in September during Jazz in ’t Park (Ghent), where they will compete against four international jazz bands for the Albert Michiels Grand Prize. The winner will receive the unique opportunity to perform on international stages in Spain and the Netherlands, as well as in Belgium.

Does this sound like music to your ears? Are you and your band members 30 years old or younger? Do you hold Belgian nationality or live in Belgium? Apply before Monday 23 February via this link.

For over 40 years, B-Jazz International Contest has been dedicated to discovering, supporting, and encouraging young jazz talent. Previous winners such as Elias D’hooge Trio, Philippe Lemm Trio, Aishinka, and Matthias Van den Brande Trio show how participation can open doors to professional careers. The contest offers ambitious jazz musicians a professional stage, an experienced jury, and an enthusiastic audience — a unique springboard to an international career.